Portsmouth favourite in running to be new Middlesbrough manager
Gary O’Neil may be returning to the Championship with a battle against Portsmouth on the cards.
After seven seasons at the club during his playing career, O’Neil remains a fan favourite among Pompey supporters.
However, the prospect of returning to the league could change those feelings if he takes the job at Middlesbrough.
Riverside sacking stirs Gary O’Neil talk
Michael Carrick has been sacked by Middlesbrough after three seasons at the club, having failed to secure promotion each time.
Chairman Steve Gibson informed the ex-Man United player of his fate in a meeting that led to his sacking.
O’Neil was the favourite for the job not long ago, with Greg Lea of Gambling.com (7 May) reporting he was 7/5 to become the next manager on Teesside.
With Carrick out of the picture, the ex-Wolves manager may return to football after his sacking in December.
The 42-year-old made over 100 appearances for Middlesbrough, so he knows exactly what it means to represent the club.
It would be a good pick-up for Boro, who will now be looking at new candidates ahead of next season.
Numerous managers will be eyeing the Riverside job, with a promising setup awaiting whoever takes charge.
Transfer window looms as key months await Pompey
With the summer transfer window in full swing, Portsmouth are wasting no time strengthening its squad.
Reading playmaker Charlie Savage has been linked to join Pompey as they look to improve their midfield depth and quality.
Striker Rob Atkinson has been tipped to join the club permanently after a strong season last year, with some suggesting he should be a priority signing.
The South Coast side will want to get their transfer business underway quickly, with pre-season approaching and a campaign Pompey fans are eagerly anticipating.
However, with one of the lower budgets in the league and Wrexham and Birmingham City joining the division, it could be a difficult season for Portsmouth.
Fratton Park also needs upgrades. With a capacity of just 21,000, the club could fill the stadium three times over, given the high demand for season tickets.
If Portsmouth were to be promoted to the Premier League, significant work would be needed to bring the stadium up to standard.